In June 2025, Sacred Heart Parish, Chorley, joyfully marked its 150th anniversary with a weekend of celebration, remembrance and community spirit. Founded in 1875 as a mission from St Mary’s, the parish has grown from a humble tin church into the beautiful Grade II listed building we know today, with its foundation stone laid in 1894.

Months of careful planning brought together parishioners, local schools, clergy and civic guests. The weekend began on Friday 27 June with a special Mass on the Feast of the Sacred Heart, celebrated by Bishop Tom Neylon and concelebrated with local and former Sacred Heart priests. The church was filled to capacity with parishioners, over 150 schoolchildren from Sacred Heart Primary, Holy Cross High School, and other Catholic schools. Distinguished guests included Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP, the Mayor and Mayoress of Chorley, and representatives from the Da’watal Islam Mosque.

The children played a central role in the liturgy, leading readings and singing hymns—many written for the Jubilee Year. The theme, Pilgrims of Hope, was a fitting tribute to the parish’s enduring legacy.

Throughout the weekend, parishioners enjoyed a flower festival, historical displays, and social events including family bingo and a Saturday music concert featuring Chorley Silver Band and a stirring organ and trumpet recital.

The celebrations culminated in a special Mass on Sunday, the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, where the church once again filled for a joyous First Holy Communion celebration.

Parish Priest Fr Francis Ball remarked “It was a wonderful weekend which will be remembered for a long time to come. Many people from the parish and neighbouring parishes and schools contributed so much - they all deserve a very sincere word of thanks for making the weekend so memorable.”

“It truly was faith in action,” Bernadette Oakes, Parish Administrator, commented, “It showed how so much good can come from parishes and communities together.”